Collagen For Sportsmen. Best Types to Choose
The human body needs a lot of nutrients to function properly. Some of them can be independently produced in the body. The other part must come from external sources without fail.
It can take a very long time to name micro- and macro elements, the inclusion of which is necessary to maintain health. However, there is a list of essential substances that are of extremely high importance. Collagen is one of them.
So that this product does not cause any doubts, we have collected and structured basic information about it. Thanks to them, each consumer will be able to figure out how, when and in what volumes the appropriate dietary supplement should be used.
Collagen health benefits
Collagen is a type of protein compound used to build connective tissue in the human body. Its main task is to create connections and strengthen all the connective tissues, as well as our internal organs. For this reason, a substance called collagen can be found in almost every cell in the human body.
The tissues contain not only collagen. This compound is part of the extracellular matrix, in which, in addition to its molecules, fibrin, elastin and hyaluronic acid are present. Moreover, each of these elements performs its own specific function. Therefore, while rejuvenating the dermis and improving its quality, cosmetologists and pharmaceutical companies are working to maintain the balance of the matrix.
As we age, the amount of collagen generated in the human body decreases steadily. This leads to the formation of wrinkles, reduced joint mobility and disruption of the functioning of our internal organs.
Without the additional inclusion of this substance in the diet, the natural aging process is also accelerated. For this reason, nutritionists and physicians recommend the use of appropriate nutritional supplements for people over 35 years old. According to them, even a short course of the use of collagen supplements can significantly improve the state of health.
Which type of collagen is most beneficial?
Like other types of protein compounds, collagen is composed of a large number of amino acids. The most important of these are arginine, hydroxyproline and glycine. At the same time, many other components are also present in the protein compound, a change in the sequence of the compound and the structure of which can affect the properties of the substance.
For this reason, scientists today identify 28 types of collagen.
In order to improve your health and preserve natural beauty and youth, doctors advise using collagen of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd types in your diet. Before starting to use them, let’s consider in detail the features of each one of them:
1.1st type – used in every cell of the human body. The main function is to maintain tissue elasticity, ensure water balance and assimilation of macro- and microelements. Helpful for strengthening bones, connective tissues and maintaining the quality of the dermis
2.Type 2 – acts as a supplement used in the treatment of joint and tendon diseases associated with inflammatory processes. Often found in dietary supplements and ointments;
3.3rd type – ensures the normalization of metabolic processes, thereby improving the appearance.
Thus, the first and third types are necessary to return or maintain the youth of the body and well-being, while the second type is required to strengthen our connective tissues and restore joint mobility. It is the best variant for all sportsmen
Animal or Marine, Plant Collagen?
The content of collagen in natural sources is insufficient to meet the needs of the human body. In this regard, pharmaceutical companies use various technologies to obtain this substance in maximum quantities.
Depending on the source of the origin of collagen, it is divided into animal and marine. The process of generating the first involves the processing of the articular tissues of cattle, and the second – the collection of the upper cells of the dermis of fish that live in the seas and oceans. However, the list of differences between these types of collagen is much longer, so we will consider each of them in detail.
Animal Collagen
It is the most affordable and most popular type of collagen. Its beneficial properties have been confirmed as a result of a number of studies, including those involving volunteers. For many years it has been used in cosmetology.
It is characterized by such qualities as:
- High rate of assimilation when used as a dietary supplement;
- A low level of absorption when absorbed through the dermis, which is caused by the large size of the Molecules;
- Simple storage process;
- Low price.
Marine collagen
It is a protein that is more efficient due to the small size of the molecules that increase its absorption rate.
However, this same feature complicates the process of its transportation and storage, and also significantly reduces its shelf life. In addition, the process of its production requires the use of high-tech equipment. All this together negatively affects the price of this supplement, increasing its cost several times.
Сollagen of marine origin is characterized by:
- A high level of absorption (even when applied to the dermis);
- Maximum similarity with natural collagen produced by the human body;
- Stimulating the natural production of collagen;
- High cost;
- Complexity of storage
Plant collagen
It is obtained by hydrolysis of wheat germ seeds, which allows decomposing the entire composition of the product into molecules and extracting substances necessary for a person.
Such additives are used more often for the manufacture of cosmetic products or for the manufacture of nutritional supplements for vegetarians.
Plant collagen is characterized by:
- A unique structure similar to animal collagen;
- Hypoallergenic;
- High rate of absorption, in particular through the skin;
- Complicated manufacturing process and extremely high cost.
To say that one of the three types is worse than the other is impossible. However, it should be understood that they are not interchangeable, which means that when choosing supplements, you should focus on the individual needs of your body.
If your goal is smooth, firm, toned skin, the marine type of collagen is for you.
The main thing is to choose a quality product – hydrolyzed and without toxic additives.
If you want to keep your entire body healthy, including bones, joints and connective tissues, opt for an animal collagen. It also helps fight the visible signs of skin aging, although it is less effective than fish oil.
Most experts insist on an integrated approach – the use of both marine and anima, plant collagen. This allows you to satisfy all the needs of the body and slow down both visible aging and similar processes in your bones, joints and internal organs.
What best collagen is recommended for sportsmen?
If your main concern is joint disease, the following brands of collagen type 2 are worth looking at:
1. NeoCell Super Collagen with Vitamin C
Collagen is produced from chicken breastbone, hyaluronic acid, glucosamine and chondroitin are added. That in the complex provides the maximum positive effect.
2.Now Foods, UC-II, 60
UC-II is the manufacturer’s patented undenatured collagen type 2 formula containing the Aquamin TG mineral complex, which also has a positive effect on the ligaments.
3.Jarrow Formulas
One of the most effective type 2 collagen, contains the whole complex BioCell Collagen, a low molecular weight water-soluble glycosaminoglycan. Many people notice that the joints stop squeaking in the first week of taking this supplement.
4.Soglar Collagen 7
It is a whole complex that combines not only a high dosage of type 2 collagen, but also extracts of boswellia, turmeric, vitamin C. cayenne pepper powder and white willow bark extract.
Despite the fact that this collagen from Solgar is not the cheapest, due to its balanced composition it allows to achieve a positive effect in the treatment of your joints in a week.
Did you know these facts about Collagen?
- Dissolves better in gastric juice with high acidity? That is why it is wise to drink ginger tea with lemon before taking it;
- Enhances the effects of protein sports supplements? Seizing proteins with collagen, the bodybuilder receives
- An additional 4 amino acids;
destroyed by cortisol, a hormone synthesized during stress? This is why people who are calm and level-headed - Look younger for longer.
And this miracle remedy washes away excess salt content, eliminates heartburn and restores the structure of the intestinal wall.
